"This is a matter," replied the colonel, severely, "that can be adjusted only between Penfield and me."
She saw that he was determined, and left the room.
When the rustle attendant upon her ascent of the staircase had died completely out, the colonel turned toward Pen. He spoke quietly enough, but with an emotion that was plainly suppressed.
"Penfield, you may stand where you are and answer certain questions that I shall ask you."
"Yes, grandfather."
"While in attendance this evening, upon a meeting of gentlemen gathered for a patriotic purpose, I was told that you, Penfield Butler, had, on Saturday last, on the school-house grounds, trodden deliberately on the American flag lying in the slush of the street. Is the story true, sir?"
"Well, grandfather, it was this way. I was—"
"I desire, sir, a categorical reply. Did you, or did you not, stand upon the American flag?"
"Yes, sir; I believe I did."
"I am also credibly informed that you spoke disdainfully of this particular American flag as a mere piece of bunting? Did you use those words?"